The ISFJ Type: 20 Traits & Tips For Thriving, From Personality Experts

Have you ever taken the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) test? It's one of the most common personality assessments you can take, with 16 different "types" a person can be. In the case of ISFJs, these folks make up roughly 5 to 6% of the population. Here's what to know about this personality type, including strengths, weaknesses, best career paths, and compatibility considerations.

ISFJs make up about 5 to 6% of the population and are twice as likely to be female as male, according to Dario Nardi, Ph.D., personality expert and author of Neuroscience of Personality. He adds that sometimes, their preferences conflict, noting that while they do like people, they are also introverts. Similarly, they can be very technical and concrete but also quite creative.

According to both Hallett and Nardi, ISFJs are very dependable people. Hallett notes they have a special eye for detail, and Nardi adds they're good at noticing what's needed and valuable. They have a talent to arrange careful support, Nardi says, with a strong sense of appropriateness based on role and context. This means they can be "highly supportive or actually not helpful because it's not their place," he adds.

Along with being dependable, you can count on the ISFJs in your life to work hard. Hallett tells mbg that this is a practical type, and Nardi adds that they also like to volunteer (when appropriate).

The hardworking and dependable nature of this personality type is only bolstered by the compassion these people have for others. Nardi explains ISFJs tend to be agreeable and make great listeners, remembering even the most minute details. They're "always willing to help and support others, compassionate, and good at empathy," Hallett adds.

According to Nardi, ISFJs are sensitive to small things—with strong preferences. "Although they present an orderly image to others, their interior life is a rich, diverse tapestry of many experiences," he says. And as Hallett notes, ISFJs are particularly sensitive to conflict and can struggle with change. They also find it difficult to share their feelings and can struggle with their own high expectations for themselves and putting too much on their plate, she explains.

ISFJs have a sometimes surprising knack for technical knowledge. As Nardi explains, while they do tend to make decisions in terms of their social and personal values (thanks to the "F"), they can become very technically skilled over time. They also enjoy their traditions, work to protect the future, and like to feel a sense of accomplishment, he adds.

And if you're wondering about compatibility with other MBTI types, Hallett says ISFJs best matches include those with similar values, with perhaps a bit more extroversion for balance, such as an ESFJ or ESTP. Nardi says any of the other "SJ" or "SF" types are also compatible, "and maybe some STPs and NFJs." He notes that they're the least compatible with "NT" types.

It also wouldn't be unheard of to see an ISFJ as a librarian, a fashion model or designer, or an architect. "They have a hidden love of design," Nardi adds.

She adds that these people learn best by doing rather than simply being taught or reading about it. And as Nardi notes, it can be beneficial for this type to broaden their horizons in different ways, whether through travel, experiencing other cultures, exploring their own heritage, or having a diverse social network.

The ISFJ type may come across as unassuming, but you'll be surprised by their vast technical knowledge, their strong work ethic, and their capacity for kindness. While each of the 16 MBTI types has its strengths and weaknesses, it's not a far cry to say if you've got one of these people in your life, you can consider yourself lucky.